Explanatory writing describes a process and breaks it down for the readers. The purpose is to inform the reader how to do something, and enlightens them on important details on how to successfully complete the task. The basic reason for this type of writing is to explain the how.
Examples of this kind of writing are how to make a peanut butter sandwich, how to tie your shoe, or even how to survive being thrown into a den of cannibals.
How to Be a Gentleman: A Primer There are very few faults that cannot be erased or at least mitigated by the exercise of good manners. Shy of committing murder, one can find himself forgiven for a multitude of sins if he at least has the decency to be polite about it. Impeccable grace has seen many a gentleman through the worst of circumstances. You may wonder how a female author can know, but do not be ridiculous. As a lady, I have dealt with such beastly men that it would make the proverbial sailor blush. The stipulations of what makes a lady a lady are not at all dissimilar from what makes a gentleman a gentleman.
How does one become a proper gentleman? To begin, one must have the proper attitude about the world around himself. To change one's outlook, start with basic, simple principles, which will subtly (and sometimes less so) alter the approach one takes to life. Follow these, and you are well on your way to the road of impeccable manners.
First, start with your physical presentation. Take a look in the mirror and ask what it reveals. Make an effort to present a clean, pleasing appearance when one's eyes fall upon your countenance. Bathe regularly and have clean hair and teeth and respectable attire when you present yourself to the world. One may dress how one likes at home and at ease, but those who do not understand (or live with you) will not be as accepting of dishevelment in your appearance. Do not slouch or shuffle when you walk. Be proud of who you are and present yourself accordingly. (See caveat on women.) Do not be ashamed, but do not be an egotist.
Taking care of your appearance is well and good, but once one has taken the time to correct the flaws in the physical, it is utterly ruined if one opens the mouth and out comes the worst kind of filth and spew. (Again, see caveat on women.) Speak in a moderate tone of voice. Do not inquire of things that are none of your business, such as the recent imprisonment of certain relatives or shameful incidents like extramarital affairs, especially around strangers. Ask the appropriate questions if necessary, but exercise common sense as to what topics are acceptable conversation in the setting and company you are with. They may be bended at whim depending on your level of intimacy with them.
In a dining setting, please be aware that no person, including yourself, would like to see the half-masticated contents of your mouth. (See...well, you get the point at this juncture, I suspect.) Nor is it acceptable to splash your food at your companions and wave sharp, pointy objects. (One could put someone's eye out.) Eat with care, minding those who may be forced to observe you as you digest your food.
Finally, special care must be taken if you intend to be around the other sex. Although there are several differences in their biological make-up, be aware that their humanity is retained in spite of them. The above outlined principles are still applicable in these situations, but are stressed especially. This is because women seldom see impeccable manners from men, and it will give you a distinct advantage if you intend to impress or even pursue them! (It may also charm your fellow men if that is your purpose or preference.)
The principles outlined above are general and only intended as a guideline. If one may, it is cautioned that you exercise your judgment with these guidelines, and be aware that they may be bended or played with at will. However, that is a ploy intended for the experienced gentlemen, and as with all things, balance and timing is everything. You are bid adieu, and wished great fortune in your future endeavors. Vive il galateo!
Examples of this kind of writing are how to make a peanut butter sandwich, how to tie your shoe, or even how to survive being thrown into a den of cannibals.
How to Be a Gentleman: A Primer
There are very few faults that cannot be erased or at least mitigated by the exercise of good manners. Shy of committing murder, one can find himself forgiven for a multitude of sins if he at least has the decency to be polite about it. Impeccable grace has seen many a gentleman through the worst of circumstances. You may wonder how a female author can know, but do not be ridiculous. As a lady, I have dealt with such beastly men that it would make the proverbial sailor blush. The stipulations of what makes a lady a lady are not at all dissimilar from what makes a gentleman a gentleman.
How does one become a proper gentleman? To begin, one must have the proper attitude about the world around himself. To change one's outlook, start with basic, simple principles, which will subtly (and sometimes less so) alter the approach one takes to life. Follow these, and you are well on your way to the road of impeccable manners.
First, start with your physical presentation. Take a look in the mirror and ask what it reveals. Make an effort to present a clean, pleasing appearance when one's eyes fall upon your countenance. Bathe regularly and have clean hair and teeth and respectable attire when you present yourself to the world. One may dress how one likes at home and at ease, but those who do not understand (or live with you) will not be as accepting of dishevelment in your appearance. Do not slouch or shuffle when you walk. Be proud of who you are and present yourself accordingly. (See caveat on women.) Do not be ashamed, but do not be an egotist.
Taking care of your appearance is well and good, but once one has taken the time to correct the flaws in the physical, it is utterly ruined if one opens the mouth and out comes the worst kind of filth and spew. (Again, see caveat on women.) Speak in a moderate tone of voice. Do not inquire of things that are none of your business, such as the recent imprisonment of certain relatives or shameful incidents like extramarital affairs, especially around strangers. Ask the appropriate questions if necessary, but exercise common sense as to what topics are acceptable conversation in the setting and company you are with. They may be bended at whim depending on your level of intimacy with them.
In a dining setting, please be aware that no person, including yourself, would like to see the half-masticated contents of your mouth. (See...well, you get the point at this juncture, I suspect.) Nor is it acceptable to splash your food at your companions and wave sharp, pointy objects. (One could put someone's eye out.) Eat with care, minding those who may be forced to observe you as you digest your food.
Finally, special care must be taken if you intend to be around the other sex. Although there are several differences in their biological make-up, be aware that their humanity is retained in spite of them. The above outlined principles are still applicable in these situations, but are stressed especially. This is because women seldom see impeccable manners from men, and it will give you a distinct advantage if you intend to impress or even pursue them! (It may also charm your fellow men if that is your purpose or preference.)
The principles outlined above are general and only intended as a guideline. If one may, it is cautioned that you exercise your judgment with these guidelines, and be aware that they may be bended or played with at will. However, that is a ploy intended for the experienced gentlemen, and as with all things, balance and timing is everything. You are bid adieu, and wished great fortune in your future endeavors. Vive il galateo!